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The role of music in the English language development of Latino prekindergarten English learners

THE ROLE OF MUSIC IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT OF
LATINO PREKINDERGARTEN ENGLISH LEARNERS
by
Aubrey Anne Bird
A Dissertation Presented to the
FACULTY OF THE ROSSIER SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
In Partial Fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Degree
DOCTOR OF EDUCATION
August 2007
Copyright 2007 Aubrey Anne Bird

This dissertation examined the role of music in the English Language Development (ELD) of Latino prekindergarten (Pre-K) English Learner (EL) students. Specifically, this dissertation examined three key areas: (1) the role of music in the oral language development of Pre-K EL students, (2) perceptions of teachers and parents regarding the role of music in helping Pre-K students learn English, and (3) the role that neuroscientific research plays in helping us understand the role of music in the second language development of prekindergarten English Learners.; This single classroom based qualitative case study examined five families in a specific prekindergarten School Readiness Language Development Program (SRLDP). Classroom observations, parent interviews, and teacher interviews were conducted to determine the role of music in helping Pre-K student learn English.; Results from this study demonstrate that music helps young Pre-K students improve their oral language development by providing a risk-free environment to practice English and improving their social skills and communication. In addition, results from this study reveal that the teacher and the parents perceive that music is used in motivating, improving confidence, and increasing memory in students. Lastly, the role music plays in the second language development of prekindergarten English Learners is that it enhances learning and increases memory.; This dissertation concludes with recommendations for practice, parents, teachers, and further research. It also provides insight for policymakers, administrators, and any person who works with young ELs regarding music as an effective instructional strategy that can be used in any prekindergarten classroom.

THE ROLE OF MUSIC IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT OF
LATINO PREKINDERGARTEN ENGLISH LEARNERS
by
Aubrey Anne Bird
A Dissertation Presented to the
FACULTY OF THE ROSSIER SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
In Partial Fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Degree
DOCTOR OF EDUCATION
August 2007
Copyright 2007 Aubrey Anne Bird